2016 legislative priorities for the Columbia Chamber of Commerce

The Columbia Chamber of Commerce released its priorities for the 2016 legislative session today.

According to a media release, the Chamber will focus on economic development, better infrastructure and more money for the University of Missouri. Jerry Dowell is the Director of Government Affairs for the Columbia Chamber of Commerce. Dowell said one of this year’s top priorities is to secure a 10 million dollar appropriation for fiscal year 17 in order to expand the University’s research reactor.

“We’d like to help build an expansion on the research reactor to create 20,000 square feet of lab space in order to help them advance training individuals who will have experience with nuclear medicine," Dowell said.

Dowell said this expansion will greatly benefit the university and Columbia’s medical research. Other priorities include passing legislation to create a better environment for businesses in Columbia, and maintenance of the interstate highway system.